As the world becomes increasingly multipolar, the study of countries on the global periphery has taken on a new importance. In the midst of shifting power dynamics and the continuing impact of globalisation, the experiences and perspectives of these countries are crucial to understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the world today. The New South Institute’s latest report, ‘Empowering the Periphery’, written by research associates Radmila Nakarada and Jelena Vidojević, provides a comprehensive analysis of two key post-conflict transition projects in South Africa and the Republic of Serbia.

It argues that by analysing the scope and limitations of these two projects, we can gain valuable insights into the broader transformative implications of post-conflict transitions and the role of the periphery in shaping the global order. The shared traumatic experience of colonialism and the lingering effects of authoritarianism in both South Africa and the Republic of Serbia serve as important case studies for understanding the challenges faced by peripheral countries in a rapidly changing world.

The shared traumatic experience of colonialism and the lingering effects of authoritarianism in both South Africa and the Republic of Serbia serve as important case studies for understanding the challenges faced by peripheral countries in a rapidly changing world

Despite attempts at modernisation and stabilisation, both South Africa and the Republic of Serbia continue to face persistent economic instability, widespread crime and corruption, and social and economic polarisation. The report argues that these persistent challenges, together with the limitations of recent transition processes, expose the profound failures of both internal and external actors and underscore the need for empowerment of the periphery.

The report concludes by highlighting the importance of including the perspectives and experiences of the periphery in our understanding of the world and the ongoing challenges we face today. Empowering the Periphery is a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate on post-conflict transitions and the role of the periphery in the global order.